Fill Your Coaching Schedule When You Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking
July 6, 2009
There is an old description of fear as an acronym of false evidence appearing real. I believe this is true when it comes to the fear most people have about public speaking. I would like to debunk several of the common fears about public speaking because I know that it is the single fastest way to fill your coaching schedule with clients.
Speaking is Inherently Stressful
Fear of public speaking is the most common reason coaches do not get out and attract new clients with speaking and workshops. Our magic magnifying mind make us think all sorts of things and creates fears that are not based in fact.
Speaking for many people is actually no different than speaking for a few people. We have a message we want to deliver and we are going to speak to them and do our best to communicate our message. The only difference is the number of people listening. Our message does not change making the delivery more difficult so there is no true reason for greater stress. Yet, our minds still tell us we need to freak out if we are speaking to a large group of people. You can get around this stress as many other people including myself have.
Know Your Material
When you know your material very well then stress is reduced greatly because you don't need to rely on notes or a power point presentation. When you write your own material and rehearse it you will be able to deliver your message with ease.
I suggest that you develop one presentation that relates to your target coaching niche and deliver that same speech or workshop for every speaking opportunity. As the material become old and needs refreshing create a new presentation or workshop. Soon you will have several presentations that you can deliver at any time even with short notice.
Speak Often
The best way to get over the fear of speaking is to get out and speak on a regular basis. I suggest you start by delivering your presentation to friends then small groups and finally larger groups.
It is a good idea to speak at least two times per month. You must be consistent in your speaking or it will be like starting over every time you speak. So even if it is not your nature, books yourself to speak at different groups two or three times a month over the next two months.
You can fill your coaching schedule and earn the income you desire by speaking on a regular basis and you can share your knowledge to help others along the way.
Filed under: Marketing and Public Speaking
2 Comments Leave a Comment
1.
Public Speaking Training Expert David Portney | July 7, 2009 at 8:35 am
I love that acronym! – False Evidence Appearing Real… doing public speaking eradicates that F.E.A.R. not because one becomes “conditioned” to it, but because people have the direct and undeniable experience that there is no “monster hiding under the bed” after all!
Hope that helps!
Best,
David Portney
2.
Eric Dana Hansen | July 13, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Great tips!
Here’s how one person dealt with his fear of public speaking.
In my recently published novel, the main character, Ian, has to undergo some management training. However, he almost backs out when he discovers that public speaking is part of the deal!
He sticks with it, though and soon learns an interesting technique from one of his internet searches. It’s all about how to mingle and network with people before an event. He tries some of the tips by helping his new friend, Elise, with some administrative functions prior to the speech class. It gives him an opportunity to chat with some of the other class members. He discovers that they have the same fears he does. It makes him feel a lot better. And, in the process of going around the room, he feels like a host. It’s a real confidence builder!
All the best!
Eric Dana Hansen, Author of “IAN, CEO, North Pole”
http://www.ianceonorthpole.com
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